Come Unto Christ

COME UNTO CHRIST

Last Sunday we were able to see 2 people enter the waters of baptism, Simphiwe and Nondumiso.   They have been receiving the missionary discussions and seriously studying for 3 months.   Simphiwe attends church services, seminary class (for teens) and institute class (for 19 years and older) every week.   She has an incredible desire to learn about the Savior and His gospel, so she attends every single class where she can learn--no matter what age group it is geared for.    Her younger sister has also studied and prepared.  In the New Testament, the Savior commands us to become like little children.   When you listen to these 10 and 21 year old girls, it is easy to see what the Savior is asking us to do.   They have willing hearts and open ears.   They humble themselves, study, sincerely pray, seek for understanding and obey the commandments..   Their quest for truth is wonderful.

 MISSION COUPLES

It takes so much work to keep a mission going.   In our Mission Office in Durban, we have 2 couples that do everything from answering the phone, to ordering our Bibles and Books of Mormon, paying medical bills and a host of other bills, recording baptisms, arranging for medical treatment for serious cases that need specialized care, keeping up to date on regulations for missionary visas in South Africa, AND keeping 70 cars running and the missionaries safe.   Elder Sorensen is in charge of the cars and answers his phone 24/7.  There are sometimes 2 accidents in one weekend and he usually has 15% of the cars in the repair shop on any given day.  Driving in South Africa is beyond description.   

Elder and Sister Nielsen (on the left) are leaving to go home today.   They are being replaced by Elder and Sister Wood (on the far right).  The Woods happen to be related to my brother-in-law, Greg.   In the middle, are Elder and Sister Sorensen.  

LOBOLA, BRIDE PRICE

Lobola, is an honored tradition in South Africa.   Even in 2016, this is practiced by most people.   When a couple desires to get married, the future bridegroom must pay the girl's family 11 cows.   The only change in the tradition, has been to allow a man to pay the equivalent of the 11 cows in cash.   Their are many negative consequences arising from Lobola.   Very few men can pay this price, so they live together without marriage and try to save the money to be married.   However, when they have children, the Bride Price goes up for each child born to the couple.   Soon the price is impossible and many men leave and find another woman.  This practice contributes to (but is not totally responsible for) all the families with no father.  

Nguni cattle, are used for the Lobola payment.   There are dozen and dozens of different types of Nguni cattle.   There is actually a Registry that catalogs each type, the physical characteristics and their Zulu name. They are a hybrid of Indian and European cattle. They are white, brown, golden yellow, black, multicolored,

I apologize for the picture.   I took 15 pics in many different locations and none were good.

dappled and spotty.   Each type is named after an animals, tree or flower that resembles the marking on the cow.   Nguni cattle play a large role in  economic aspects of South Africa, not only because of Lobola, but because their hides are a very sought after.   They are used for rugs, wall hangings, furniture, etc.   

They have pointy, delicate horns.   Each group of between 10-30 cows are "supervised" by one herder.   I put supervised in quotation marks because I use the word loosely.  The herder has one long stick with a red bandana tied on the end.   He sometimes follows the cattle, but much of the time there is no one in sight.   The cattle wander on to the highway, into gardens, into the bush etc. and pretty much call the "shots".  This morning a herd strolled on to a major road during a busy time.   Traffic was backed up, but the herder could not get the cattle to move.   He waved his flag frantically over his head, then gave up and turned his back to the angry motorists. 

OUT OF AFRICA

 Our elders rolled their Bakkie (truck), and luckily no one was hurt.   But we needed to make a quick trip to Durban in regards to the accident.   Since we were going, we took a box we wanted to ship home to Colorado.   You might be wondering what we are shipping home????  A 6 foot tall wooden giraffe!   That's right!   A giraffe.   We have fallen in love with these graceful, gorgeous, giant animals.  What will we do with this carving?   We have no idea.    And, to complicate matters, Sandy has no decorating ability whatsoever.   So don't laugh when you walk into our home and see this beauty looking out of place.   It is a reminder of this amazing country.

It was no small task to find a box to ship it in.   We visited so many stores with no luck.   Finally, when I explained to a store clerk I wanted a box almost the exact size and shape as he was, we had success.   He asked what it was for and when I said, "A giraffe", he was puzzled but knew what to look for.   He went behind the store and climbed into the "rubbish bin" (dumpster) and found a perfect box.   Elder Todd spent a long time reinforcing the box,  4 rolls of packing tape, lots of bubble wrap and completed the job.    However, getting this box into our car (Toyota) was quite the challenge.   Eventually, he took the headrests off the seat backs and laid down the front seat.  the box barely fit by pressing it against the front windshield and the rear windshield.   I sat in the back seat with the box going over my shoulder.   Elder Todd could not see out either the rear view mirror or the side mirror.   I was his "eyes" for the 2 hour trip.   But we made it safely!

ADORABLE

We were sitting right underneath them watching them eat the berries.  

While we were in Durban, we took our box to the mission home.    While we were on the sitting back patio of the mission home chatting with Sister Zachrison,  several monkeys came right up to us.    She ran inside to get bananas but did not have any, so she brought back carrots to feed them.   The monkeys followed her into the house before she could get the door closed.   That is dangerous for several reasons, but the main reason is they pee and poop on everything (and steal your food.)   After getting them out of the house, we spent 10 minutes watching the monkeys and trying, unsuccessfully, to get them to eat out of our hands. We NEVER get tired of these adorable monkeys!!

He grabbed a packet of Ketsup (like from a fast food place) from their kitchen, opened it and licked up every drop!

HARD SELL

In South Africa, you can set up a business anywhere.   Literally, you set up your shop anywhere.  This is the main street...just around the corner from our house.   Along each side of this busy 2-lane road are stretches of grass.   This man pulled his truck up on the grass and set up business.  He is advertising to get your car air conditioner recharged! He has all the equipment right there!  He not sitting in his lawn chair by the truck, because he is trying to flag down business from traffic on the road.   THE REAL CATCH HOWEVER IS, IT IS WINTER HERE!!!!!  People are wearing ski hats, sweaters and long pants.  I am sure we are the ONLY ones using our car air conditioning.   It is 80 degrees!   Air Conditioning is called Aircon in South Africa. 

We also see people selling furniture, bean bag chairs, fans, charcoal and biltong (kind of like beef jerky, only better) along the road. 

LAST TRANSFER DINNER

It seems unbelievable that we just cooked our last transfer dinner!    How can that be?  It seems like we just arrived in Richards Bay and I was trying to figure out how to turn my oven on, where to find familiar foods and how to cook when it was 105 degrees plus high humidity.    Now Richards Bay, grocery shopping, and feeding the elders seem like "home".   We also celebrated Elder Katimbo's birthday with cake and ice cream.  We had roast beef, potatoes, gravy,  carrots, homemade rolls, salad, bananas and pears.  I don't think I will ever cook again.  Our neighbor told us that:    In Africa, quality does NOT matter when it comes to food.  Only quantity matters." She said, people don't want anything fancy.....they just want A LOT of whatever you have.   Sometimes it is like that with the elders. 

 During dinner, the missionaries receive the transfer news (about 7:30 p.m.) and find out if they are leaving and where they are going.   They are so excited...and sometimes a little apprehensive.  These missionary companions spend 24 hours a day together, in every circumstance you can imagine.   They become best friends.   Some of them will see each other in the U.S. after their missions.   But the African elders know they will not see these friends after their missions.  Amidst all the goodbyes, I forgot to take any pictures!

DAY-TO-DAY
It is mostly the day-to-day opportunities that bring us joy.   The past 2 weeks we have taught investigators about the Book of Mormon and the Word of Wisdom; we have taught young women, taught priesthood, taught Primary; gone out late at night to charge a battery for a stranger, inspected the elders' apartments for cleanliness, given rides, given a Family Home Evening lesson; had a widow over to play games, and trained 2 youth leaders.  

We only have 3 1/2 weeks left on our mission. (Now we have 3 weeks left because I didn't post this blog.)  Each night and morning we plead with the Lord, to guide us to do things that are most worthwhile and to serve those He would have us serve.   It is not always easy to discern what is most important, and we need Divine guidance.   

Thank you for your love and prayers.



 

Only 3 1/2 weeks left!

June 2, 2016

Greetings!

Because so much of what I want to share does not have a "photo", I decided to write a letter instead of blog today.  

We are shocked as we look at the calendar and see that we only have 3 1/2 weeks left on our mission!   We haven't even thought about the "end" of our mission until this week, because we want to work very hard up until the last minute.   We are pleading with the Lord to open our eyes to things that we need to do or people we need to teach or assist.   Although we haven't had any "big" revelations, names have come in our minds very quietly...just a quick flash of a name---nothing more.  

Let me share one of those examples, because these are some of our favorite ways to serve.    Sihle Dlamini, 34 years old and single, attended Larry's Institute class and we were so impressed with him.   We invited him to attend our Temple Preparation Course and he participated wholeheartedly in every class.  His comments showed deep insights.     At the completion of the class, others were getting temple recommends and expressing a desire to go to the temple.    We noticed that Sihle didn't mention going to the temple.   Although we were a little puzzled, we didn't want to push anyone.   Then we became so busy, it slipped to the back of our minds.   Last week, we wondered again, why this outstanding young man had not gone on the temple trip.   Possibly he could not get time off work (he is one of the few with a full time job 6-7 days per week, although it is low paying).  Sunday night I saw him and decided that the best approach would be direct.   I expressed love and concern for him and then asked why he did not go to the temple.  (This directness is bad manners in the Zulu culture.)  He said that he was "working on something".   I said, "That is wonderful."  But I continued and asked if he was trying to be perfect, because none of us are perfect and have make many mistakes.   Or, I continued, was it something more serious.   Just as he started to speak, 2 people came into the room, so he was silent.  It was late and he needed to head for home.   As we drove home, I shared with Elder Todd what had happened.   He said, I will call him tomorrow and ask him to lunch.  So Wednesday night, he and Elder Todd went to dinner.   They had a wonderful, LONG talk and Sihle shared his problem.   Elder Todd was able to give him counsel and direction on how he can become worthy to attend the temple.   Without the Lord bringing his name to our mind, we fear he never would have gone to the temple.   He felt that you just wait years.   In the temple prep course, there is specific instruction on worthiness and repentance.   But it was a reminder, that we often hear correct teachings but we don't understand, or listen or focus.    It happens to most of us.  

Sihle told Elder Todd how much it meant to him that someone cared enough to notice him.   And that someone loved him!     We cannot tell you how much these experiences mean to us.  

Sunday, we felt like we were able to serve in many ways---and that makes it a perfect day!   We began the day by driving to Port Durnford to church.  (Although the roads were almost un-driveable in our sedan, we still made it a few minutes early....because Elder Todd makes us leave soooo early for our meetings.)   I won't go into the details, but the branch president moved 2 months ago, there is only one counselor, who has a severe speech problem because of an auto accident, and one other Melchizedek priesthood holder.   There is no Primary president or teacher so a 14 year old boy teaches them the lesson every week and then they sit alone. The district Primary President and I thought it would be wonderful if all the Primary children in the district, sang in conference, June 12.   Sister Colton, the district primary president, is the branch  primary president and so it is very hard for her to leave her branch and visit other branches.   I volunteered to teach the songs to the children in the other branches and she provided me with visual aids.   

So after Sacrament meeting, I taught 14 children 2 songs:   Stand for the Right and I Will Follow God's Plan.   They learned the words fairly well, but the tune was "off".   I brought the IPAD with the music, but they sang so loud, they drowned out the tune.   The 14 year old boy is musical and sings loudly, which is great.   But he sings another tune.   So, the kids know the words, but sing a different melody!   I needed to bring speakers for the IPAD.

After the first block in Primary, I went to teach Young Women.   They have 2 young women (one is 12 years old and one is 11 years old--she is turning 12 in July so I didn't say anything).   They also had a nonmember visiting.   I taught the Personal Progress program and gave each one her Personal Progress books.    They are so excited.    I am sad to leave these young women--I hope someone will help them apply the Personal Progress Program--it is so powerful.   Then I presented each of them with the YW torch necklace--Stand for Truth and Righteousness.  In each branch, this is a special moment.  Last, (I was overtime but felt this was important.) we decorated their bare bulletin board with a hanging banner that said, "Press Forward" (the youth theme for 2016) and a colorful poster.   The girls cut everything out, put it together and hung it up.   They were so proud of their work! 

As I was leaving, I saw a few members gathered around the baptismal font.   The font is outside, but surrounded by a high locked gate.   The font is similar to a child's wading pool and it is cemented into the ground.   But there was commotion, because someone noticed that the cement was chipped away at the base.   Someone had tried to come and steal the baptismal font!!   It is a VERY plain plastic rectangle.  

We didn't stay around, but drove to Enseleni Branch to a baptism for a 21 year old girl and her 10 year old sister.  Even though it was very simple (12 people including us and the missionaries), no frills or refreshments, the spirit was there.   The talks were basic and there were only 2 hymn books (used by the new members and their nonmember father), but the priesthood authority was there.  The font is above ground.   To get into the font, they placed a ladder with one side in the pool and the other part out side the pool.   So 2 people steadied the ladder, and one person helped the baptismal candidate up and down the steps of the ladder.     We are so grateful to see these wonderful girls come into the church.   Simpewe graduated from high school 2 years ago and is still waiting to see if she can find some financial assistance to attend the university.   She wants to major in Chemistry or Engineering.   She is very motivated despite many obstacles in her path. 

Afterwards, we drove to the Richards Bay Chapel where Elder Todd attended a 3 hour Training Meeting with the Branch Presidents and District Presidency.   The District President called 2 counselors to serve with me in the Young Women's presidency 2 months ago.    We met together and planned and prepared for our Young Women's conference this Saturday. This is our second presidency meeting and it is all new to them.  We visited and laughed and bore testimony.   It was so much fun.   But even more, it was another confirmation of the Lord's program at work.   We built each other and I was able to teach the doctrine of temple marriage.   One of my counselors has been dating a nonmember for 5 years.   She confided many things to our presidency and we searched the doctrine for answers. 

At the end of the evening, I spoke to Sihle which I already shared with you.

I have felt a little discouraged the past week because I was reminded of 2 very important teaching techniques we have been neglecting. We were reminded of these from our Zone Leaders in our zone training.   These are things we knew, but somehow we forgot.   It has been quite upsetting to me because we have prayed so fervently to be the best missionaries we could.   These 2 items would have improved our teaching, but now we are leaving. 

We have enjoyed teaching the gospel to investigators so much BUT we know that it is done best by the young missionaries.   They do it EVERY day and are more practiced.  It is the main part of their ministry.  

Being a missionary is the most wonderful experience.  We wanted to "pay back" to others the blessings of the gospel we have received, BUT we are the ones who are blessed. 

Love,

Mom and Dad

Elder and Sister Todd

Sandy and Larry

TWO NEW ADDITIONS!!!

Two beautiful granddaughters joined our family in the last 2 weeks!  We hate to miss these special occasions.   Nothing is as good as being there, but we are so grateful for SKYPE and FACE TIME.   We feel blessed to have 2 healthy babies and mothers.  The proud parents are Lynda and Ryan Todd in New York City, and Stephanie and Dave Wessler in Denver.

Can't wait to hold and snuggle Lucy and Charlotte.

Lucy Hazel Todd
8 lbs. 8 oz.

Lucy received a warm welcome from her 4 siblings.

Charlotte Ann Wessler
7 lbs. 11 oz.  

Wessler family were excited to meet their new sister!

SPECIAL MOTHER'S DAY 

Sunday was memorable.   We needed to be out the door earlier because we had someone that "needed a lift" (as they say here) to church.   This person lived quite a distance away so Elder Todd prodded me to move a little faster so we could be on time.   Also, Larry was giving the sermon at church so we needed to be early.   He gave a wonderful talk honoring women and the role of women in God's plan.   This doctrine does not mesh with Zulu culture.   Men feel like they should be catered to and not asked to do work of any kind.     Housework and caring for children is demeaning for men.   We strive to help the men understand that husbands and wives are equal partners.  Elder Todd has had very spirited conversations with the men encouraging them to say simple things like "please" and "thank you" to their wives.  

After our church meetings, we took Freddy home and went inside to "greet" his wife.   Elder Todd told me, "We cannot go inside because we need to be home in one hour."   It is almost impossible to stay less than an hour at Freddy's home.   Anything less, is considered rude.   We explained to Asha (his wife) our time schedule for the day, but she replied she had made us dinner.   Well, eating dinner takes way more than an hour.   Finally, she came up with an acceptable solution.  We stayed and visited for 45 minutes, she packed our dinner to-go, we "owe" them an extra visit this week and Larry drove like crazy to get us home on time. 

The young missionaries can only call home (or FaceTime or Skype) twice a year (on Mother's Day and Christmas.)   They were coming to our home to use our computer and IPAD to Skype their families.   We had a tight schedule to find times for elders from England, Uganda, South Africa,  California, Oregon, Washington and Utah to call to different time zones.   That morning several last minute changes had to be made, but it all worked out beautifully.    Listening to parents and siblings squeal with delight when they saw their son/brother on Skype was heartwarming.   The elders come out with huge smiles after speaking to their families.   Two years is a long time for 18-20 year olds to be away from their families. And parents certainly show faith, when they send their son half way around the world for 2 years.  

We had dinner in the crockpot and rolls, fruit, dessert and drinks on the counter.   So from 2:00-9:15 p.m. the elders ate, phoned, and ate some more. We had 2 devices going all the time for them to use.    They came and went.   We love this time to get to know the elders better and to answer any questions or concerns they have.   They bring a special spirit into our home and bless our lives.    When they all left and the kitchen was filled with dirty dishes and pans---it still felt like a wonderful day. 

I did not take one picture of these special young men.

LUCKIEST WOMAN

Sunday, I felt so grateful to be a mother!   Actually EVERY DAY,  I feel so blessed to be a woman and especially a mother!  Our children, their spouses and our grandchildren have been the joy of my life.   Each of them have been so supportive of our mission.   I have not been home for the birth of two babies (and not able to help Lynda and Stephanie), have missed Christmases, birthdays, soccer games, track meets, piano recitals, baptisms, priesthood ordinations and day to day life.    Yet, each one of them have cheered us on.    

MONDAYS 

Every Monday Elder Todd is busy ironing 6-7 white shirts. Tuesday through Sunday we are wearing our missionary attire (white shirt, tie and dress pants for Elder Todd).   Monday is our Preparation Day.    If we stay home to clean and  wash clothes, or if we go on a Safari or hike, we wear casual clothes.   However, if we go to the store or sightseeing (except for Safaris), we wear our missionary clothes.   So he needs all those white shirts EVERY week.   So this is a typical Monday.  

UNITING TOGETHER

We take every opportunity to work with other churches.   Yesterday, we received a phone call from a pastor in Nongoma (3-4 hours away) who wanted to meet with us.   She was going to be passing through our city today and we invited her to our home.   Her daughter had attended a cultural program our church put on in Durban, and she told her mother she might be interested in joining us in a project.     We spent an hour with her and her assistant pastor.   We explained what we do in the high schools, communities and with self-reliance programs.   She was very cordial and appreciative.   As she examined the programs, she repeatedly said, "This is what our country needs."  or,  "Thank you for empowering our youth." or, "This is the vision we need."  But, she was seeking money for her church.    Their church had grown, but now they wanted to expand and needed the funds.    We explained that we do not "fund" any churches, but we help in the ways I mentioned.    We appreciate good men and women in Africa who are working to teach their people about Jesus Christ.   We parted friends and she may invite us to speak to their congregation or join us in other endeavors.  

FULL CIRCLE

We continue to learn lessons...sometimes we wonder why it takes so long...or why don't we learn the first time around?????

One example from today:  You might remember, that I am the Young Women's youth leader for all 5 congregations in this area.   We have done so many different classes, conferences, sports events, cooking, service projects and spiritual instruction over the past 16 months.   We began by building friendships among the youth, then providing activities so they could have "fun" (or rather, feel the JOY that comes from living the gospel), and next teaching skills and promoting self reliance.  Food was OFTEN the center of these events.   Woven into everything was the gospel of Jesus Christ.   

However, today I was reminded of the lessons we learned in the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah.   Here is what happened:   This morning we drove to Ngwelesane to work with the young women on "Personal Progress".   Also included was a cooking class.   The girls had asked to learn how to make American pancakes.  Elder Todd is an expert, so I volunteered his services.   We also decided to throw in other breakfast items like French Toast.   

We began in the usual way by driving all over 2 towns, picking up girls.   But we were still able to start by 10:10 a.m. (Sixteen months ago we would not have started until noon....we are making progress!) The topic was:  The Joy of Womanhood.   Many of the girls have  low self esteem and a very negative feeling about womanhood.  After our introduction, we broke into groups to read and discuss.

We took a break and had a cooking demo by "Chef Todd" followed by the girls making breakfast.   Such fun!   Such serious cooking.   We had apricot and strawberry jam, powdered sugar, syrup and butter for toppings.   They were able to choose which one....but they layered each and every thing.   They did not want to miss out on anything.  They ate, cooked, ate and cooked some more.  We used up every egg and ingredient we brought.    

Afterwards, we finished our discussion and study of womanhood from God's point of view and from a worldly perspective. By this time a neighbor girl and joined us and the house was PACKED!   When it was time to leave, I asked what their favorite part of the day had been.   They chimed in "Everything!".  But when pressed, they said the best part was the lesson and what they learned about their potential!!    

Well, in a nutshell, "That says it all!"   They love the food, they love the friendship and fun, but what they need most is the gospel of Jesus Christ.  
Of course, we all know that!!!   But I needed to remember that. 

We have worked hard to teach skills and fill their hungry bellies, but hungry spirits need to be filled also.    During the last 4 months this has been our "refocus".  This is what we were taught 16 months ago at the Missionary Training Center.  We had not forgotten, but sometimes it was not center stage.

 WELCOME TO THE DURBAN SOUTH AFRICA MISSION!

Wednesday we met our newest missionary, Elder Chico, from Mozambique.   Being a missionary is challenging, but Elder Chico speaks Portuguese and a very little English.   He is getting used to a new country, new food and a companion that does not speak or understand one word of Portuguese!  What faith these young men have!

Elder Chico from Mozambique is on the right.  Elder Smith and Elder Matlala (who is going home...and we will miss him greatly) are introducing him to Enseleni.

FAVORITE SIGHT! 

African people are so clean!   No matter where you go, laundry is hanging outside of every home, shack or apartment.   I love the colorful clothes hanging from fences, trees, rope or wire!   Saturday is the traditional wash day, with Sunday as backup, in case of rain.   Every school uniform (all students wear uniforms) and every article of clothing except what they are wearing, is hanging out to dry.   

ZONE CONFERENCE 

This is our mission schedule so you can get a little idea of how things work.

Our mission for young and old missionaries is divided into 6 week increments.  The first 6 weeks, we (young elders and ourselves) have a zone conference in Durban which is 2 hours away.   Usually 1 or 2 other zones attend the same training with us.  So there are about 20-30 missionaries plus 3 senior couples in attendance.   The training goes from 10-6 and the senior couples provide lunch and snacks.   Our mission president and his 2 assistants (young elders) plan and present the training.   
The mission president travels all over the rest of the mission so he can train the other missionaries that are located 4-12 hours away.  So each 6 weeks every missionary receives training from our mission president.
Examples of the training might be:   How to have more effective prayers, receiving personal revelation, how to work together with your companion, the power of the Book of Mormon, developing Christlike attributes, etc.  

The second 6 weeks, the president does interviews.    He travels to every town/city where there are missionaries and he interviews each missionary one-on-one.   This usually takes him 4 weeks of travel to complete this.  

 This schedule repeats  non-stop month after month. Our mission president is only " home" 1-2 weeks every 6 weeks.   The rest of the time they are on the road.   They also visit all the congregations, speak at district conferences and issue temple recommends.   It is a grueling schedule but they never complain and they LOVE the missionaries.   

This good looking group is our zone (missionaries, us and  President and Sister Zachrison).

 SELF RELIANT

Because of the water shortage, many homes do not have any water.    This woman is walking to find the truck that will sell water to fill her drum--not a job for a weakling!

55 gallon drum

We love serving the Lord in South Africa.  We see more clearly each day how much the gospel of Jesus Christ is needed here.   

Elder and Sister Todd
Grandma and Grandpa
Larry and Sandy 

Mountains and Valleys

May 6, 2016

Dear Family,

This week and a half has had such highs and many lows.   We have not had experiences that have been so heart breaking as the lat 3 weeks.    I wonder if it is because we are trying so very hard to do everything possible to strengthen the people during these last 2 months.  We are exercising our faith and asking the Lord what would be the best use of our time.   We are trying to follow the spirit.  More and more and more things come to our mind.   In addition, the branches, young women and young adults have come up with more last minute requests for help.  But many things fall apart that were moving so well. 

I will start with one of our "mountains" this past week.    On Tuesday we left home at 7 a.m. to drive and pick up Praise (a young woman who returned from her mission to Ghana and is still sick, so we are taking her to Durban to a specialist.) and drive to Durban for our Zone Conference.   This will be the last Zone Conference of our mission!   It hardly seems possible.   President Zachrison, really prepares spiritually for these conferences and you can actually FEEL his longing for the spirit to attend us.    Our zone conferences are supposed to be 10-2, but we have learned that they will go from 10 until much later.    Tuesday, the leadership meetings began at 9, then the rest of the zone conference started at 10.   We took a break for lunch and the senior couples provide lunch.  We took a 10 minute break at 2:00 and we served cookies and cupcakes.     WE FINISHED AT 6:00 p.m.!   We had some business to discuss with other people, then we drove Praise home (she went to the doc for 45 minutes and then spent the rest of the time with us at the zone conference) and arrived home after 9:00.   Larry drove home in very bad conditions and we were so grateful to be home safely.  

We felt so touched by the conference theme:  RECEIVING PERSONAL REVELATION.   I have improved on our mission but I am still grateful to be taught more on this subject.   Joseph Smith said, "Salvation cannot come without revelation."   We were taught that we will succeed in our work as we learn to receive and FOLLOW personal revelation.  Joseph Smith said, "It is vain for anyone to minister without it."    That has been our prayer for the last 16 months.  

Something that was enlightening to me was this teaching:   If I feel that I DON'T receive revelation, I need to reflect on my feelings.   After a LONG discussion, we identified how people feel when they receive revelation:   confidence, excitement, plugged in, joy, reassurance, blessed, and "I can do this."     If we have those FEELINGS it is the fruit of revelation and we HAVE received revelation.   This is probably OLD news to you, but I loved hearing it.  

We were instructed to prepare ourselves to ACT.  We need to be available mentally and physically.  Then more revelation comes.   I appreciated all the effort that was put into this conference.     We were cautioned that NEGATIVITY AND BAD ATTITUDES actually stand in the way of revelation.   Those are 2 things that easily come on a mission. 

Lastly, our president spoke to us about RACE.    We have had some problems because of race in companionships that you would never think of  ..or I never thought of.   We have missionaries from many African countries, Malaysia, Canada, England and the US.    Each African country and every other country have different cultures.   These cultures do NOT mesh easily for many people, even with the gospel.   But President said the Lord has brought all these cultures and races together in one cause so we can learn to become knit together.   Learning to be knit together is ANOTHER purpose for missions like the ours.   The Lord accomplishes so MUCH with one task (mission).

OTHER MOUNTAINS

On Monday night we taught the Van Breda family the discussion on the Book of Mormon.   We felt it went very well and they were receptive.   We brought them a Book of Mormon Stories for children and a Book of Mormon in Afrikaans because that is their first language.   The biggest obstacle is that the mother and father work 6-7 days a week at least 12 hours a day---so time for missionary lessons and reading the Book of Mormon is hard to come by.     We arrive when the parents have been home for 30 minutes so they can say hi to their kids.   Then the dad cooks dinner and we teach the rest of the family.    He can hear what is being taught because their house is very small and he is only 3-4 feet away from us while he cooks dinner.    We teach a lesson, play 1 game and then we leave and they eat dinner and the kids go to bed.   The dad has not had one day off work since February 1.    They have asked for this Sunday off work.      But it will be hard for them to progress as much when their work days are so long.   When we arrive their 2 boys (ages 7 and 10) run up to us and throw their arms around us and say:  We miss you so much.

On Thursday night, we taught the Baxter family the Word of Wisdom.   They are such a special family and we love them so much.   They love the gospel but the Word of Wisdom was tough.   They both smoke lots and drink coffee.   We are praying so hard and fasting that they can quit.   It will be very hard.   They tried at the beginning of our teaching them the first lesson and couldn't quit.   But we know that the Lord can and will strengthen and help them.  

But teaching these 2 families is a highlight for us.    We have to REALLY work hard to get appointments with them.    They are so busy.   But it is worth it.  

WHAT A WEEK!

HUMBLING 

Last Sunday after church, I was standing outside visiting with people.   Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed two boys about 6 -8 years old.   They were laughing so hard, they were shaking.    I didn't think much about it, but a few minutes later they were still laughing.   I turned my head to look at what was going on, and I noticed that they were pointing in my direction.   I also noticed that their mother was trying to get them to stop laughing, which seemed strange.   Within a few minutes, the boys were much closer to me and pointing directly at me.   I wondered if my dress was unzipped or it had a big hole.  This time I turned and faced the boys, and inquired what was so funny.   They inched closer and pointed at my arms.   I was REALLY puzzled now.   I asked again, and this time they pointed at their elbows and then at me.   Oh, so they thought my elbows were funny.     I STILL did not get the joke.   One boy grew very brave and walked up and pointed at the SAGGING skin on my elbow!!!!   His mother was so embarrassed and tried to pull him away, but I assured her I was not upset.   Then he slowly reached out and touched my wrinkled skin.   Immediately he pulled his finger back with the most horrified look----like he had just touched something very gross!   His friend was not going to be left out, and he timidly touched my skin with one finger and let out a loud shriek.   There was no stopping them now---one boy came up and grabbed my loose skin and twisted it.   I let out a little yelp because it really hurt.  They both took off running before I could say a word.   I am sure they will be laughing about my elbows all day long.     I was grateful that I could bring so much laughter to these children....but it was quite humbling.    Needless to say, I will NOT be posting a picture of my elbows.            
 The Zulu women have beautiful skin and very FEW wrinkles so they couldn't imagine what happened to my skin.

IS THIS REAL?

Monday we headed to the Tembe Elephant Park about 4 hours away.   There are many game parks in South Africa, but this one caught our attention because it is completely run by the local African community.   All of the employees are from the village.   It is a high poverty area with no other opportunities for work.  They advertised the park as a chance to see the wildlife AND help support the community.  
As we arrived, we were greeted by several women (we later found out they were the chefs and housekeeping staff) who sang their hearts out for us.   This was the beginning of a WONDERFUL visit.  

These ladies greeted us with beautiful songs.

Home Sweet Home.    Inside was a bed, toilet and sink.    The shower is outside.

After a quick lunch, we headed out on safari with 4 other people who were from Germany.   Elder Todd informed our guide that he wanted to see a leopard very badly.   We have seen all the Big Five (the 5 most sought after animals in African viewing and hunting) except the leopard.   We were informed that ALL visitors would like to see a leopard, but they are very elusive and not often seen.   That did not dampen Elder Todd's desire to see a leopard.   

We were viewing animals at the "hide" (a high structure where you can view animals without being seen), when our guide whispered, ""Hurry to the vehicle now!"   We quickly and quietly, went down the stairs and hurried to the jeep.  As soon as we were seated, the driver took off driving like a mad-man.   We were thrown from side to side and bumped all around, but nobody minded.   We were in search of a leopard.   To cut to the chase, we DID arrive in time to observe the leopard up in a tree.   We were thrilled and thought, "This was wonderful!"   We were satisfied and ready to leave, but the leopard climbed down the tree, walked across a flat area and then sauntered across the trail right in front of us!!!   Then he climbed another tree nearby and draped his beautiful body over a branch in full view.   Wow!    We observed him for about 15 minutes and then he disappeared.  We were giddy with excitement as we thought about what we had just seen. 

The leopard was so close, but its camouflage is very effective!

We returned in time for dinner at 7:30 pm.   The entree was Impala steaks, which is a popular animal found in most game parks.   All the meat killed is part of the population control of this beautiful animal.   It tasted very good, but felt a little like we were eating Bambi.   The second night we had Kudu, another native antelope, for dinner.  We enjoyed both.

The manager of the park spoke to everyone and shared the history of the park.   I will give you a very quick overview:   For decades the people had planted crops and then the elephants had come and harvested the crops.   The tribe had used noise makers, bonfires and sling shots but nothing kept the elephants out of their crops.  Finally the tribal chief approached the Conservation/Wildlife Department and asked for help.   Eventually they came up with this plan:   Thirty thousand hectares would be fenced off to keep the elephants and other animals inside.    The people were all relocated outside the fence in a new area.   They were compensated for this loss of home and farm--I don't know if it was adequate or not.   Nine years later, it opened as a game park.  So the animals in this park are all indigenous to this area.  

He continued his speech and thanked us profusely for coming here and allowing the villagers to earn a living.   All of the staff were very humble and we felt so welcome.  

That night, we were the ONLY couple that was not awakened at 3:00 a.m.    Elephants had pushed down the fence and they were tromping through the place knocking over trees and pulling down branches.   Guests said the elephants were 2 meters away from their "tents" and they were terrified.   I was so disappointed that we had missed the excitement and had slept through everything.    

Our wake up call came at 5:20 a.m.   It was a "REAL" wake up call-- a girl walked up to each tent and yelled "Wake Up".   Breakfast was at 5:40 and we were on our way at 6:00 a.m. sharp.   We drove for 3 hours and didn't see anything.   The last 45 minutes we saw giraffes, impala, nyalas and wildebeast.   Safaris are unpredictable, but always wonderful.

Late that afternoon, on our second safari for the day,  we came across 5 female lions lazily basking in the sun. We could not believe our good fortune.   These lionesses were very close.   And they were being playful with each other.   Our guide said, they had made a big kill and were now digesting the meal and enjoying themselves.   The females are the "best and most efficient hunters" according to our guide.   They are faster and more agile than the larger/heavier males.  

The "Grand Finale" was a completely different experience.   Patrick, our fantastic guide, took us into a "no entry" area.   He moved aside logs that blocked the way.   He explained that he was taking us to an area on the backside of the waterhole.  He parked the jeep and we waited.  Twenty minutes later 7 elephants strolled right past us.   We tried to get pictures but the elephants were so close they didn't turn out.   We got pictures when they were further away.   Next 2 giraffes appeared.  Watching them drink is fascinating.   

 Watching the giraffes straddle to drink.    It took quite an effort. 

Another incredible day enjoying the elephants very close and personal. 

After 45 minutes, we looked up at the watering hole.  Slowly walking across the field were nyalas, ten minutes later came the waterbuck, then another giraffee and a buffalo.  Animals were wandering down slowly and cautiously.   They are always on the lookout for the predators which often lurk near the water.  

Picture this scene:   majestic animals, beautiful water, typical African trees and huge blue sky all together.    We took pictures, but I wanted to cry because they look so "plain" and "dull" and unexciting.   Well, in real life it looked like a scene from a movie. 

Notice the reflection.

We want to always remember the feelings we felt there. We felt gratitude for the variety of animals and the complexity of how the animals survive and co-exist.   Heavenly Father created an amazing interdependence and survival system.  We felt so much peace in the surroundings....like our souls were at rest.   We felt awe at the beauty everywhere.   .    

Our guide stopped at sunset and we were served drinks (we opted for bottled water!!) with this gorgeous setting as a backdrop.   The elephants were grazing and we loved watching the baby tag behind his mother. 

Just a side note on the drought in southeast Africa.    It is VERY serious.   The rivers, lakes, waterholes are completely dried up and hard packed.    This water hole comes from the park rangers digging a borehole and pumping water.    They have no idea how long the borehole will produce water.   In the local village people pay to have water brought in for their cattle.   And, they are now paying to have water trucked in for themselves. 

I couldn't resist his smile and his friendly manner.   After watching him weave a small basket, I bought one. 

We (or actually ME) really embraced "helping the local villagers earn a living".  Rarely, do we ever spend money for such luxuries, but we both had a massage.   They bring these tables outside your tent and go to work.   Elder Todd had a head, neck and shoulder massage for 45 minutes for $15.14!!!   His first massage ever....he reluctantly agreed to "support" the local workers!

Full Service Hotel!   This is how they carry all luggage to and from the tents.

On the drive home we saw several scenes like this.   People lined up with all kind of containers to get water.  When the containers are filled they must carry them home somehow.   A very few have trucks or wheelbarrows, many carry large containers on their heads. 

We stopped on the way home and bought some fresh pineapples growing here.   The pineapples are small---some just bigger than an apple.   Some are delicious and others not good.  

GETTING BACK TO WORK

On our drive home, the phone began to ring with people/missionaries needing help.  We changed "gears" and got to work.

The next morning we left and drove 45 minutes to Mtuzini to meet Sue Butler, who needed help with Family History/Genealogy work.   She is not a member of our church, but wanted to sign up to use the free Family Search website.    Before we got to work on family history, she treated us to a picnic on the beach:   Rolls, cheese, cucumbers, and sausage/potato/apple salad.  She had planned to make us a quiche but the power and water had been turned off all morning.  We had a wonderful time, and then went to her home to work.   Unfortunately, there was a glitch when she typed her email address and then her internet didn't work so Elder Todd couldn't complete the task.   However, the next morning he registered her and she has an account.  We are going back to give her more help next week.  

MORE TRAINING NEEDED

We are trying to "train" leaders for the Young Single Adult Group (singles ages 18-30).   We realized we needed to do more training, when we met Friday afternoon for the final meeting and things were a mess.    Let's put it this way, we tried "tough love" combined with "rescuing".   Don't ask me to explain, because you don't have enough time to read the story!   

Saturday morning we had the missionaries who needed to use our computer and another couple that needed our help also.  But at 11:30 we were finally off to our assignments.  I will describe one experience from today---this is very similar to other weekly happenings when we think we will be finished in 10 minutes.    We were supposed to pick up Namhla at the pizza store and drive her to the church--very simple.    She was in charge of the food for the Young Adult Activity and we are trying "shadow leadership" (where we are available to help them, but they are supposed to do the task themselves).  She had ordered the pizza and bought the fruit, but it was too much for her to carry so we went to get her.   As she climbed into the car, she said that Seimpiwe was at the taxi rank and needed a ride to the church.   We turned around and headed to the very congested area where the taxis pick up customers.   We spent quite awhile trying to find her among all the people.  Our phone rang again, and it was another person needing a ride. Namhla looks at the pizza and said, "Now we need another pizza."   I thought it was too late, but she said that they could make the pizza really fast.   Back to the pizza place, order the pizza, and then off to find "Zama" who had called earlier.    Elder Todd drove to the appointed meeting place but Zama was not there.   We called.  We were in the wrong place.   We gave the phone to Namhla and she realized we were in completely the wrong area.   We made new arrangements.   However, Zama is no where to be found.   After 3 more attempts, we finally found Zama and headed back to the pizza store.    Pizza is not ready.   Wait.   Tobani, also needs a ride.  Finally, we have the pizza and 5 passengers in the back seat of the Toyota, and we head to the church.   It took 1 hour and 45 minutes to "go pick up Namhla."  

FUN WITH MINUTE-TO-WIN-IT!

However, it was all worth it!!    When the others arrived, we ate and then began the games.   Playing games like this is completely foreign to them.  We had rehearsed the games the day before, but Tobani didn't know how to begin.   So Elder Todd and I introduced the games.   First we played, "Two truths and a Lie" which they loved.  A funny twist was that they almost always blurted out the lie before anyone could guess.   They just couldn't wait and they answered their own question!!!   But everyone was happy.   

Next we did 4 games of Minute-to-Win-It.   This is a TV game (so they told us, but we had never seen it or heard of it.) and we found the tasks online.   We played "Cookie in Your Face" (you had to move the cookie from your forehead and into your mouth with no hands), "Defy Gravity" (where each person had to keep 3 balloons in the air for 1 minute,  "Noodling Around" (where you must pick up 6 pieces of penne pasta with a piece of uncooked spaghetti in your mouth...and with hands behind your back) and Chinese Marshmallows (you must transfer as many mini marshmallows from one bowl to another in one minute using chopsticks).    Oh, how I wish you could be a fly on the wall and watch....or a gecko on the wall.  

After cleaning up, we took 2 loads of people back to the taxi rank so they could head home.

Zama is the winner...6 penne pasta on 1 spaghetti noodle.

No one had any idea how to use chopsticks, so Larry "cheated" and coached his team.   Sazi did OK. 

Elder Todd did succeed in getting the cookie in his mouth!

CALLING ALL WOMEN

We have been able to provide many events and training for the young adults, teenagers and children.   But I wanted to do something special for the women.   Allyson Colton, an ex-Pat from the USA, and I arranged to show a re-broadcast of the Relief Society Broadcast (a worldwide meeting where church leaders talked just to the girls and women).  Actually, her husband and my husband, did much work to make this a success.  In fact, without them, we could not have done it.   We brought girls and women from the 5 townships to watch the video.   It was so uplifting and inspirational.   Afterwards we ate and visited....which was the perfect ending.  The women DID NOT want to leave.  Women here work SO very hard, and usually do not receive any appreciation or help.

Eating and socializing.

Monday was our Preparation Day and we hoped to visit a new area, but we were too tired and just cleaned up the dishes, etc. from the previous days.

FROSTING ON THE CAKE

That Monday night we had an appointment that we had been looking forward to all week, so we pulled ourselves together and prepared.   We were able to teach Michael, Yolandi, Tiffany and Aiden Baxter the missionary discussion on the Plan of Salvation or the Plan of Happiness.  We had great discussions as we presented the concepts.   We challenged them to read the Book of Mormon and pray about it.   We are excited to hear their thoughts.

TWO THOUGHTS FOR YOU AND ME

"Why would anyone walk through life satisfied with the light from the candle of their own understanding when, by reaching out to our Heavenly Father, they could experience the bright sun of spiritual knowledge that would expand their minds with wisdom and fill their souls with joy?"

"When we reach out to lift one another, we prove those powerful words:  No one goes his way alone."

We have truly experienced the joy of walking with the wonderful people of South Africa.

With much love,

Elder and Sister Todd
Sandy and Larry
Grandma and Grandpa